The nations did not simply sign the conventions and treaties and walk away–all signatories agreed to be monitored by the so-called treaty bodies, and report to them on a regular basis on the actions they have taken to live up to their promises to protect these rights. The treaty bodies also hear complaints from individuals whose rights have been violated.

Once reports have been submitted, the treaty organizations review them and make recommendations about actions the country or group needs to take to protect or expand a right. They also, with the consent of the signatory nations, define standards and interpret the scope of rights codified in the treaties. And they specify what countries should include in their periodic reports on treaty compliance.

One of the most important monitoring organizations for reproductive and sexual health and rights is the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), which monitors implementation of the Women’s Convention.

The UN system includes various other human rights commissions, working groups, and reporting systems. Special rapporteurs, for example, examine specific issues globally or in individual countries for the Commission on Human Rights.

Once they enter into force, treaties are legally binding on all states that accept them. They are under constant review, and the interpretation of the obligations they embody is discussed by all the countries involved.

See the section on the Glen Cove meeting of treaty organizations.

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